Dudu Tassa Slams Roger Waters Over Criticism of Artists Performing in Israel

Israeli singer-songwriter Dudu Tassa has publicly condemned former Pink Floyd frontman Roger Waters for his repeated criticism of artists who perform in Israel. In a pointed Instagram post, Tassa urged Waters to shift his focus back to music rather than pressuring artists to support the cultural boycott of Israel.

“Dear Roger,” Tassa wrote, “Are you not tired of obsessing over the same musicians who are simply trying to bring good into the world? Move on. Your incredible music has already contributed and inspired an entire generation. Now, all the noise achieves nothing. Music is what matters. Got it?”

Tassa’s comments were sparked by Waters’ recent remarks targeting Radiohead lead singer Thom Yorke and guitarist Jonny Greenwood for their continued performances in Israel and Greenwood’s collaboration with Tassa. Greenwood, whose wife is Israeli, has worked with Tassa since 2008 and released an album last year titled Jarak Qaribak ("Your Neighbor Is Your Friend"), featuring artists from across the Middle East.

Waters, a vocal supporter of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel, criticized Greenwood’s work with Tassa and renewed calls for Israel’s exclusion from international events such as Eurovision and soccer competitions. He has also accused Radiohead of enabling what he calls Israel’s “genocidal” policies, calling Yorke “deeply insecure” and dismissing Greenwood’s defense of their performances as “complete bulls—t.”

Greenwood, however, has stood firm in his stance, emphasizing the value of artistic collaboration. “An artistic project that combines Arab and Jewish musicians is worthwhile,” Greenwood said, adding, “Silencing Israeli artists for being born Jewish in Israel doesn’t seem like any way to reach an understanding between the two sides of this apparently endless conflict.”

Tassa, a prominent figure in Israeli music, echoed this sentiment by championing the unifying power of art. His and Greenwood’s joint work, which celebrates the region’s shared cultural heritage, has gained widespread acclaim for its ability to foster dialogue amidst division.

Waters’ history of controversial statements and actions, including the use of antisemitic imagery in his concerts, has drawn condemnation from both artists and audiences worldwide. His calls for cultural boycotts have frequently been criticized as counterproductive, with opponents arguing that dialogue and collaboration are more effective in bridging divides.

Despite ongoing pressure, artists like Tassa and Greenwood continue to use music as a medium for connection and understanding. Their work highlights the role of culture in addressing complex issues, offering a hopeful alternative to division and hostility.

Israel’s vibrant cultural scene reflects the resilience and creativity of its people. Share this story or subscribe to our newsletter for more on how Israeli artists are making a global impact.